The Great Ocean Road is a must visit spot when visiting the Australian state of Victoria. It’s famous for its scenic views, crystal-clear blue waters, and beaches that go on for miles!
Some people opt for a one-day trip just to hit up the 12 Apostles, but I think that does the Great Ocean Road, and all the amazing stops along the way, a huge disservice. Sitting in a car for multiple hours for a quick trip just to turn around after an hour or two doesn’t sound like my kind of trip.
Of course, if that’s all the time you have, definitely do it, but I’m so glad that we stretched our trip out into 5 days so we could see everything!
Frequently Asked Questions: The Great Ocean Road
- Where can I see Kangaroos along the Great Ocean Road? Anglesea is going to be the best spot for Kangaroo sightings, especially at the Anglesea Golf Club. They actually offer Kangaroo tours! Other than that, they’re definitely spread out all over the Great Ocean Road and we saw quite a few, but usually from a safe distance. They are wild after all and should be treated with caution as they can be dangerous if they consider you a threat. There are sanctuaries where you can get up close to the Kangaroos, but we found the best and most ethical place to do that was at the Moonlit Sanctuary to the east of Melbourne, like we talk about in our Melbourne blog post.
- Where and how long is the Great Ocean Road? It stretches along the southeastern coast of Australia, starting at Torquay, near Melbourne, and extending for approximately 243 kilometers (151 miles) to Allansford. That being said, we took a slightly different path based on how much time we had and what sites we were most interested in.
- How much time do I need for the Great Ocean Road? Most people recommend 2-3 days. That’s certainly nice, but if you want the hidden gems without the crowds, I recommend 5-7 days.
- When is the best time to visit the Great Ocean Road? January and February will have the best weather (when it’s summer in Australia). However, that’s also when it’s the most crowded. We visited during their fall season for the pleasant weather and smaller crowds, which worked out because it also gave us more flexibility to change our plans without worrying about hotels being booked out.
- Does it cost to visit the Great Ocean Road? No, almost all of the sites, including 12 Apostles are completely free. That being said, there are additional activities that cost extra.
- Why don’t you include the costs in your blog? Things change constantly and we have hundreds, reaching thousands, of blog posts. As much as I wish I could constantly update to reflect pricing changes, I would never get anything else done. There are also so many other factors that can affect pricing.
- Can you swim along the Great Ocean Road? For the most part, yes! The water here is cold, but beautiful. Some areas have stronger currents than others, but there are signs that indicate what the conditions are like along the beach. You cannot swim at the 12 Apostles or go down to the beach, as there is a colony of fairy penguins. However, there are plenty of places nearby to swim!
- And check out our list of Australia travel tips and things you need to know for more information!
If you only have one day, here are a few options that are perfect!
If you have a few days, but not quite 5 days, there are unique, customized itineraries available, so you don’t have to put up with the hassle of planning it out yourself. There are even some where you tell them what you want to do and what experiences you want, and they put the itinerary together for you! You just get to sit back and enjoy! There are even tours that include some additional spots!
If that’s not enough, there are some longer tours that take you beyond the Great Ocean Road.
A 5-Day Great Ocean Road Itinerary
Anglesea, Victoria
We started off our multi-day trip along the Great Ocean Road by making the 1.5-hour drive from Melbourne before our 2:00pm check-in time and spending our first night at the Great Ocean Road Resort.
You can also do this or spend that extra full day in Melbourne, drive to Anglesea the following morning/early afternoon, do some exploring, and then check into the hotel. There’s too much to experience in Melbourne to rush your time there, so be sure to check out our list of things to do for some ideas!
At the Great Ocean Road Resort, we had our own, private studio, an indoor pool, and my favorite part, an outdoor area with trampolines, close to Anglesea. Our room had a huge tub (always a plus in my opinion when staying at any hotel).
On our drive from the airport to Anglesea, we didn’t catch sight of any Kangaroos, but it seemed like as soon as we entered Anglesea, the Kangaroos appeared. I noticed them almost immediately at a park in Anglesea. You’ll have lots of opportunities to see these iconic Australian animals all over Anglesea as well so keep your eyes peeled!
Bumblebeez Cafe
I’ll never skip out on a cute, local coffeeshop. I think Anglesea had the best cafes along the Great Ocean Road. Whether you’ve been following along on our travels for a while now or you’re new, I love (and need) coffee so we always make a point to find unique places to grab a cup whenever we’re traveling.
In Anglesea, we stopped at Bumblebeez. I highly recommend their Avocado Toast and Chili Scrambled Eggs, especially since they are popular dishes in Melbourne if you haven’t had a chance to experience them yet. They put me onto sourdough bread, and they definitely have it figured out!
Kangaroo Viewing at Anglesea Golf Club
In true Aussie fashion, the Anglesea Golf Club is nestled in native bushland and home to 300 resident Kangaroos that seem to be unbothered by visitors. So, whether you’re here to work on your swing or just to see the Kangaroos fairly close up, it’ll be a memorable experience for everyone!
We did the Kangaroo Viewing Tour (no golf included) and it was so funny to just see Kangaroos chilling as golfers made their way around them. Apparently, a group of Kangaroos made their way to the golf course where they found so much food that they decided to make it their permanent home.
At the end of your tour, you’ll get a coupon for 10% off at their on-site restaurant, which is otherwise only open to golfers.
The Anglesea Golf Club itself has amenities like an 18-hole mini golf course, a clubhouse, practice fairways, putting greens, and a driving range, not to mention the stunning views the Great Ocean Road is known for. You don’t have to golf to go on a tour.
Point Roadknight
This was one of our favorite spots in Anglesea! The beach was stunning! The rocky terrain and crashing waves along the point create little waterfalls and clear, shallow pools of water. The way the shore stretches out a little further into the ocean protects Urquhart Bluff Beach from strong waves and winds.
Point Roadknight is a quieter beach with less foot traffic compared to others. It’s tame waves and calm water make it an ideal spot for surfers, swimmers, and snorkelers. Fishermen are often seen fishing off the point as well.
If you’re arriving closer to high tide or you’re looking for more of a leisurely swim, this is a great substitute for Urquhart Bluff Beach. Or just stop here to stretch your legs, fill your tummy, and enjoy breathtaking scenery.
Sunnymeade Beach
Surrounded by rock formations, Sunnymeade Beach is a quieter beach hidden by a steep embankment. Keep in mind you’ll have to walk about a quarter of a mile down to the water from the parking area and the steps are quite steep. When you get down to the shore, walk towards the cliffs and you’ll find these picturesque, rock arches with water flowing through them. From Urquhart Bluff Beach, it’s a little over a half-mile walk.
This area experiences fewer waves when conditions are ideal, so fishing and snorkeling are possible.
Urquhart Bluff Beach
As the name suggests, Urquhart Bluff Beach is comprised of several bluffs, or rounded cliffs, that overlook the water. You can either park in the parking lot at the bluff or, at low tide, walk along the entirety of the beach at the base of the cliffs. Otherwise, you’ll be cut off from where you’re parked. You can also access the beach from Point Roadknight, but again, only at low tide.
Keep in mind that there are reefs along the shore, so it isn’t an ideal place for beginner swimmers or surfers. However, at low tide, these reefs are exposed for a glimpse into what lies beneath the ocean’s surface.
You can also start the Surf Coast Walk Trail at Urquhart Bluff Beach, a 1.8-mile walk that takes you slightly inland, through part of the Great Otway National Park, before ending at Sunnymeade Beach.
Other Things to Do in Anglesea
Add one or a few of these other things to do in Angelsea to your plans for the day before heading back to the Great Ocean Road Resort or dedicate some of the following day to exploring Angelsea before heading to the next town:
- Angelsea Indoor Market – Drop in to do a little shopping from 70+ businesses or participate in one of their many classes, with everything from resin workshops to canvas painting. If you unfortunately run into some bad weather, this is a fun indoor activity to try.
- Anglesea Overlook – This is a great spot to see the beach from afar and snap some awesome vacation photos. For a few minutes of a stop, this is a must!
- Love House – This is a cute, aesthetic spot with a view of Angelsea Beach to grab dinner. Dinner. We tried Beet Root, a popular Australian dish, along with the Sticky Lamb Ribs, Korean Fried Chicken Bao, and Slow-Cooked Chipotle Angus Beef Short Rib. I’d recommended making reservations beforehand. Even during the slow season it can be hard to get a table.
- 4 Kings Coffee & Food – Here, we grabbed coffee and pastries. They also offer breakfast dishes like Avocado on Toast and Noisette Fruit Toast (raisin toast with butter).
- Surf Lessons – Angelsea is a popular spot for surfers, so if you’re interested in trying it out for yourself, or honing your skills, this is the place to do it!
Lorne, Victoria
If you’re looking for somewhere to stay along the Great Ocean Road with easy access to the beach, the Lorne Hotel is known for its panoramic views of the ocean and elegant rooms. Or just stop in at their bistro and beer garden or their Italian restaurant, Totti’s Lorne, as you’re passing through.
Lorne Beach
This is a white sand beach a short distance from the Lorne Hotel and Main Street Lorne. Do some shopping, exploring, and lounge on the beach. This is also a great surf spot, including for beginner surfers.
Teddy’s Lookout
Slightly inland from Lorne Beach and a short detour from the Great Ocean Road is Teddy’s Lookout. The view is incredible, with miles of various shades of blue water so clear you can see through to the bottom.
If you’re visiting during Australia’s winter season, this is a great opportunity to potentially see some whales. There are also a few hiking trails in this area.
Visit Great Otway National Park
The spots mentioned below are within Great Otway National Park, which is just off the Great Ocean Road and about 15 minutes from Lorne.
Erskine Falls
There are two different ways you can experience Erskine Falls. If you aren’t looking to walk very far, you can go to the outlook at the top of the falls, or you can walk all the way to the bottom. It’s an easy 5-minute walk, but there are a lot of stairs. I will say, walking through the rainforest is an experience I’d recommend if you’re able.
Sheoak Falls
If you don’t have as much time to spare, this is one stop I would take off your list. In my opinion, Sheoak Falls doesn’t compare to Erskine Falls if I had to pick one over the other. However, the walk to Sheoak Falls from the parking area, especially at sunset, is a site all its own, and still a fairly short hike. Keep in mind it isn’t as high as Erskine Falls.
Lower Kalimna Falls
I would go as far as to say this was my favorite of the waterfalls we went to! You can even swim here! We also saw Kangaroos and Wallabies along the way in the same way we casually see deer here in the States.
This hike is comparably longer than the others mentioned above (40 minutes one-way), but it is also an easier hike (and there aren’t any stairs). Just make sure to follow the posted signage versus Google maps, as it will take you to the wrong place (learn from our mistake).
Live Wire Park
You can really go ziplining anywhere, but this excursion had just the right amount of thrill that made it stand out from the others. You can ride the Shockwave Zip Coaster, which is a moderately thrilling zipline rollercoaster through the trees with twists and turns. It is nowhere as crazy as a rollercoaster though.
You’ll also have access to the Canopy Circuit, which is a net trampoline park with huge, inflatable balls, creating a larger-than-life ball pit suspended 32-feet in the air among the trees. This is a great family-friendly activity, in addition to their kid-friendly ziplining course.
Eat at Raas Leela
Serving beautifully plated Indian food with an Australian twist, Raas Leela is a must-stop about a quarter mile from the Lorne Hotel.
We ordered Beetroot Gulabo (soft lentil dumplings served with a beetroot yogurt), the Stuffed Mushroom (a vegetarian dish with cheese, ginger, and other spices), the Champaran Gosht (a rustic goat curry), a side of garlic naan, and a Ryans Blueberry Bramble from the bar.
As a lover of beets and pink, I was such a fan of the color here and how unique the food tasted compared to the Indian food we have in the States.
Lorne Coffee Truck
About a 1-minute walk from the Lorne Hotel is a strip mall home to the Lorne Coffee Truck. It serves locally roasted, award-winning coffee with a convenience store attached to it. We stopped by on our way to our next destination, but there are also places to sit outside.
Grandma Shields Bakery
In this same stirp mall is Grandma Shields Bakery, a local favorite that is known for their award-winning chunky steak pies and a variety of other freshly made, baked goods for a quick breakfast. There are also places to sit if you’re on a more leisurely timetable.
Kennett River Koala Walk
The Kennett River Koala Walk is about 35 minutes from Lorne in a small town called Kennett River. You can park your car at Kafe Koala and walk the trail from there. There is also a car route, but it’s recommended you walk for the best chance at seeing wildlife.
If you are set on seeing a Koala in-person, but you don’t have a lot of time to experience the Kennett River Koala Walk in its entirety, you can see King Parrots and Koalas hanging out near the cafe.
This area of Australia is known for the large number of Koalas that live there. They can be hard to spot since they take shelter in trees, but this is the best place to see them if you’re on the lookout for them. You may also happen across Wallabies, King Parrots and Kookaburras. It’s recommended that you visit before the midday heat since Koalas are usually asleep during this time.
Port Campbell, Victoria
Port Campbell is home to the iconic 12 Apostles, the most visited and iconic spot along the Great Ocean Road. However, it’s still small in a way you wouldn’t expect the town to be with how many tourists flock here. One of my favorite parts here were all the cute bunnies running around at dusk and dawn. They were everywhere!
The word “motel” is often associated with the extreme side of a budget-friendly stay. Honestly, that’s what we were expecting when we booked the Port O’Call Motel, but we were pleasantly surprised!
My recommendations don’t usually include motels, but this one deserves some praise. It was super comfy and clean with artsy decor for a splash of fun. It’s also conveniently located near several of our planned stops in Port Campbell, including Port Campbell National Park, home of natural wonders like the 12 Apostles and the Grotto.
Port Campbell Beach
This beach is more inland than others, so the waves don’t crash as much and it’s a little more peaceful. Even though we visited Australia during their winter season, there were still locals swimming.
Port Campbell National Park
Gibson Steps
The first stop along the Great Ocean Road within Port Campbell National Park is the Gibson Steps, named for the 86 steps, originally created by the Indigenous Kirrae Whurrong people, that lead down to Gibson Beach. Depending on conditions, the stairs and the beach may be closed to the public.
If you’re just stopping by, you can also experience amazing views of the beach and each of the rocks from the lookout at the top. Some visitors park at the 12 Apostles and then walk along the half-mile path that leads to the Gibson Steps.
Although the Gibson Steps are also a series of limestone stacks, they are not considered a part of the 12 Apostles.
12 Apostles
About a 2-minute drive further west are seven stacks of limestone, similar to the Gibson Steps, called the 12 Apostles. Since the beach is home to a colony of protected Fairy Penguins, you aren’t able to access the beach itself. However, if you plan to visit the 12 Apostles at sunset, you might catch a glimpse of them coming ashore.
The 12 Apostles Visitor Center has coffee, drinks, snacks, and merch designed by local artists for sale. There are also restrooms here if you need a bathroom break along the way.
12 Apostles Helicopter Tour
This 1-hour helicopter tour is a splurge-worthy experience where you’ll have a phenomenal, aerial view of parts of the Great Ocean Road you can’t access by car. For example, we caught a glimpse of the Cape Otway Lighthouse, one of the oldest lighthouses in the world; we learned about Dinosaur Cove where the first dinosaur fossils were uncovered, and alternate views of some of our previous stops along the way.
There are several different options to choose from, including a 15-minute flight over the 12 Apostles for about $165 AUD ($111 USD).
The 12 Apostles Gourmet Food Trail
If you’re looking to add a foodie element to your trip along the Great Ocean Road, Port Campbell is known for the 12 Apostles Food Artisans and Gourmet Food Trail, including items like gourmet chocolate, award-winning cheeses, hand-crafted liquors, and seasonal fruits!
Loch Ard Gorge
Named after an English ship that perished here in 1878, leaving only two survivors (more about them below), Loch Ard Gorge is a popular day-trip spot for locals and visitors alike. The water here is so blue so it’s obvious why it’s so popular. Admittedly, it’s another one of my favorite places we stopped.
If you’re not looking to navigate a busier beach, try some of the quieter bays and coves past 12 Apostles towards Warrnambool and beyond. Swimming is not recommended but you may see people doing so at their own risk.
The Tom & Eva Outlook
This area offers a bird’s eye view of Loch Ard Gorge, named after the only two survivors of the Loch Ard shipwreck. If the beach is too busy or you’re on a time crunch, this is a great way to take in this natural marvel. There aren’t any obvious signs that’ll direct you to it, but if you park at the Loch Ard parking lot, you’ll find it along the same route.
The Razorback
About 5 minutes past the Tom & Eva Lookout is the Razorback with even more fantastic views of the Loch Ard Gorge area and the Southern Ocean. Again, if you don’t have a lot of time to explore, this can be skipped over.
Thunder Cave
Obviously, there is a lot to see along the Great Ocean Road, so if you’re trying to prioritize your time, you can skip over Thunder Cave. It can take a bit of time to find too, so it may be more enjoyable if you have time to spare. You’ll likely hear it before you see it. However, it is also accessible from the Loch Ard Gorge parking area.
The Grotto
What was once a bluff has been eroded by crashing waves and wind to create the Grotto, a rock arch with water pooling beneath it. There are a few stairs to get down to the shore for some great photos. Keep in mind there is a wall that blocks the entryway, so you aren’t able to go inside it. However, there are other, similar caves you can explore along the Great Ocean Road, like on Sunnymeade Beach. Still, this was one of my favorites to visit.
Bay of Islands Coastal Park
Located near the small town of Peterborough, the Bay of Islands Coastal Park is not nearly as busy as Port Campbell National Park. It’s typically further along the Great Ocean Road then most people are willing to drive. However, its landscapes are just as picturesque and the lack of foot traffic is just an additional perk, especially during Australia’s busier summer season.
During their whale season (May to October), Southern Right Whales can be spotted off the coast. It is also home to the endangered Hooded Plover among other native species, like Wallabies.
Worm Bay
Located near the Bay of Martyrs is Worm Bay. I would say it’s similar to the Loch Ard Gorge, but with two bays and fewer visitors. There is a set of wooden stairs that’ll bring you down to the beach. You can also access this area if you park at the Bay of Martyrs and walk.
Bay of Martyrs
Similar to the 12 Apostles, you’ll find rock stacks, several small coves, and an accessible shore.
Bay of Islands
This is another beautiful spot along the Southern Ocean, surrounded by towering cliffs and species of birds within the Bay of Islands Coastal Park. There is also a launch point for sea kayaks here.
Childers Cove
In my opinion, Childers Cove is another must visit. There are secluded bays and a cave you can walk inside when the tide is low. It was almost completely empty when we went and was such a great bit of privacy. I’m not sure how it compares in the Summer, but we enjoyed our peace during the Fall.
Warrnambool, Victoria
Warrnambool is a charming town towards the end of the Great Ocean Road and is a great spot to relax and unwind before heading home. It offers beautiful beaches, trendy cafes, and a laid-back atmosphere that adds to its appeal. If whale watching or visiting the hot springs isn’t your thing, you can easily skip it and enjoy a leisurely drive back.
Deep Blue Hotel & Hot Springs
After exploring the Great Ocean Road, we were so looking forward to our stay at the Deep Blue Hotel. With an on-site day spa, bathhouse, and hot springs, this is the perfect place to stay for a little bit of relaxation by the ocean.
The rooms are spacious and comfortable, and we even managed to get upgraded to a suite simply by asking if our room came with a full kitchen!
The Deep Blue Hot Springs offers a variety of pools for a therapeutic and rejuvenating experience. With multiple geothermal bathing pools, including an essential oil pool, we enjoyed the mineral-rich waters, known for their healing properties, after long days of hiking and exploring. There are different pools that feature beautiful waterfalls and sensory waves.
See our list of the best day spas and bath houses near Melbourne for some more relaxation on your next trip to Victoria!
Lady Vandeburg
Long trips call for indulging in tasty food and refreshing cocktails. Serving everything from juicy burgers and milkshakes to cocktails in cute cups, we found what we were looking for at Lady Vandeburg!
We ordered the Vandeburger, a double patty burger; the Chicken Brie Burger, a Biscoff Loaded & Fried Donut, and the Lady Flamingo, made with passion fruit liqueur, tequila, apple juice, and soda. They also offer gluten-free dessert options, mocktails, and a kid’s menu!
Stingray Bay
During low tide, the bay opens up and provides access to some nearby islands, allowing you to walk through an area that would normally be submerged in water.
When we visited, the islands were closed for conservation purposes, but you could still walk along a sandy area that was just as stunning. The way the water barely kissed the sand, with an inch or two to walk all the way across, made this one of my favorite spots.
Thunder Point
This spot is great for watching the sunset.
5 Days on the Great Ocean Road: Final Thoughts
Overall, I thought setting aside 5 days to explore the Great Ocean Road was just right! However, I wouldn’t have minded a few more days if time would have allowed it. I’m glad I went in the fall, but I wouldn’t mind coming back in the summer just for some of the swimming spots. For the overall tour and sightseeing spots where swimming isn’t involved, like the 12 Apostles and Gibson Steps, I think the fall was the best time for avoiding large crowds and enjoying the nice weather.
Of course, there’s so much to do beyond the Great Ocean Road, so make sure to check out our list of things to do in Victoria, Australia!
Last Updated 5 months ago by Jessica Serna | Published: June 14, 2023
